PWD Encourages Water Conservation Practices Amid Summer Heat

As summer officially sets in, the Plainview Water District (PWD) is encouraging residents and local businesses to practice water conservation, especially in light of the recent heat wave affecting New York and the surrounding region. The rising summer temperatures have and will continue to lead to increased water usage, highlighting the opportunities to conserve by preventing unnecessary waste and strain on resources.

“Water consumption in the District nearly triples during the summer months, a trend that becomes especially apparent during situations like the recent heat wave,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “This increased usage primarily stems from the overuse of residential sprinkler systems, which provides plentiful opportunities for conservation. We encourage residents to use water wisely and remain conscious of their usage. By incorporating at least one new conservation practice into your daily routine, you can make a significant impact on preserving our only source of drinking water.”

During the summer months, it is easy to overconsume water due to increased activities like lawn watering and outdoor recreation. However, integrating simple conservation habits into your daily routine can make a significant difference. By being mindful of your water use—such as fixing indoor and outdoor leaks promptly replacing your sprinkler timer with a smart irrigation controller, and adhering to local lawn watering ordinances—you can help reduce unnecessary waste. Keeping track of your water consumption and making small adjustments can contribute to preserving this precious resource for future generations while also saving on your water bill.

“We want our residents to have a beautiful lawn and enjoy their outdoor spaces, but we’re asking that they do so while also being conscious of their water use,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Good water habits don't restrict you from doing what you want; they simply help you consume water more efficiently and support your community. The District is always here as a resource for anyone who has questions or wants to learn better habits for their water consumption. Our practices not only benefit the current environment but also help preserve it for future generations.”

The recent heat wave and rapid increase in temperatures serve as a prime example of a situation that drives significant spikes in water consumption throughout our community. A common misconception is that lawns need excessive watering during such periods, but in reality, overwatering can harm your grass more than it helps. Lawns typically require only about an inch of water per week, including rainfall, and excessive watering can lead to shallow root growth, along with increased vulnerability to disease.

“Many residents overestimate how much water their lawn actually needs, leading to waste and potential harm,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “Overwatering not only wastes this precious resource but can also damage your lawn by causing shallow root growth and increasing susceptibility to disease. By learning more about your lawn's actual needs and implementing good water habits, you are not only helping your lawn thrive but also saving on your water bill.”

For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469 email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

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